Oman travel guide: everything you need to know as the sultanate drops PCR tests for travel (2024)

FAQs

Is a COVID test required to travel to Oman? ›

2023. Passengers arriving at Teheran (IKA) must have: a COVID-19 vaccination certificate in English showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival; or. a negative COVID-19 PCR or RT-PCR test taken at most 72 hours before arrival.

Unvaccinated travellers are subject to mandatory testing upon arrival. In addition, unvaccinated travellers must wear a paid electronic bracelet and be quarantined for seven days until the test results are received. On the eighth day, another PCR test must be performed.

Courses or boosters usually advised: none. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Tetanus. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: none.

Entry to Oman

You need a valid visa to enter Oman if you're planning to stay for more than 14 days. Visit visas are available on arrival at the airport. However, it's recommended you apply for a visa before you travel. You can apply for an e-visa through the Royal Oman Police portal.

The new law was published in July 2023, but employers were given a grace period until 31 January 2024 to adapt their employment policies and practices to ensure compliance. Among other things, the law increases employer-paid sick leave and maternity leave and introduces new employer-paid paternity leave.

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Oman. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Oman: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, rabies and tetanus. Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Though Oman has borders with Yemen, Oman's foreign policy strategy has been to maintain equilibrium between major powers in the Middle East and Oman is not involved in any of the current conflicts going on. Hence, it's absolutely safe to travel to Oman.

You must have the correct travel documentation for Oman. Passport holders from most countries need a visa to stay more than 14 days. Several different visas are available for Oman. You must apply for the right visa type for your travel purpose, visa types include tourist, work, and business, amongst others.

If you recently had COVID-19 and are recommended to wear a mask, do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you are unable to wear a mask whenever around others.

If you're traveling without being fully vaccinated, you can take some steps to protect yourself and the people around you: Get a COVID test 1 to 3 days before you leave. Wear a mask on public transportation and in airports, stations, and other travel hubs. Keep your distance from people who aren't traveling with you.

Can I drink tap water in Oman? ›

While tap water is generally safe to drink, most Omanis drink bottled water and this is widely available. You can safely drink carbonated drinks in cans and bottles. Outside the capital area and main towns, you should boil or sterilise water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice.

You need to declare all drugs and medicines including prescription medications, alternative, herbal and traditional medicines, vitamin and mineral preparation formulas to Customs.

Never insult Islam, and during Ramadan eating, drinking, smoking, playing loud music and dancing in public places during daylight hours is strictly forbidden and punishable by law, including for non-Muslims. Discussing rumors about the Sultan's private life is illegal, and shouldn't be a topic of conversation in Oman.

p*rnographic materials and firearms are prohibited. Muslim travelers are forbidden to bring in alcohol. Oman does not require visitors to identify with a religion. Non-Muslim travelers can bring in two bottles of alcohol bought at a duty-free shop.

US travelers can visit Oman without a visa, but only for short stays of up to 14 days. To stay for longer a visa is required.

Can US citizens go to Oman? Yes, nationals of the USA can visit the Sultanate of Oman easily. Travelers from America must apply for an Omani eVisa for stays that exceed 14 days in length. This is easy to obtain by filling out a quick online form.

Some countries still require unvaccinated travelers to submit a pre-arrival test or test upon arrival. However, many countries treat all travelers the same, regardless of vaccination status, and have eliminated entry requirements as a result.

International visitors to Oman require valid passports (Except GCC citizens who hold valid government-issued National ID cards) and most will require a visa for the duration of their stay. Some nationalities and resident of GCC countries may avail the 'Visa on Arrival' facility wherever applicable.

Oman - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to terrorism and armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.